Planning Permission in Thatcham

Planning Permission in Thatcham

Planning permission is a system where local authorities can authorise building works by granting permission for the proposed work. Garage conversions will often not need planning permission, as long as the work is internal and you do not plan to expand the structure of the property. Garage conversions are usually covered under permitted development rights, which cover a variety of home improvement work. However, these rights have been rescinded in some locations by councils, usually in new builds, so it is always worth verifying with your local authority. If you are intending on undertaking a garage conversion on a listed building or live in a conservation area, you will require planning permission. In addition, if the walls of your garage are shared walls with a neighbour, you must obtain a Party Wall Agreement. You will still need to comply with all building regulations related to your garage conversion whether or not you need planning permission. These building regulations cover elements of the conversion like insulation, escape routes, fire proofing and ventilation, so it is often a good idea to use an architect to draft plans and approve designs in order to ensure compliance with these regulations. You will likely still need to submit plans describing the change of use of the garage to your local authority. If planning permission is taken into account from the start of the project, it is far less likely that there will be any trouble further down the line. The majority of planning permission applications in England are approved.